Accounting Manager

Purpose of the Position

The Finance Director is responsible for overseeing and managing the financial health and sustainability of the association. This role ensures the integrity of financial reporting, compliance with applicable regulations, sound budgeting and forecasting, and strategic financial planning to support the organization’s mission.

The Finance Director serves as a key advisor to the President & CEO and Board of Directors, providing financial insights and leadership to guide decision-making and long-term planning. In a small trade association environment, this role is both strategic and hands-on, encompassing accounting operations, audit oversight, investment tracking, and cross-departmental financial support.

Responsibilities

Financial Management & Accounting

• Oversee accounts payable and receivable functions for National, Regions and Councils.
• Prepare monthly financial statements and reports for internal and board use
• Lead the development and implementation of the annual budgeting process, including coordination with departments
• Maintain fixed asset records and manage depreciation schedules
• Review and process employee expense reports on a monthly basis, ensuring accuracy, compliance with company policies, and timely reimbursement.
• Ensure compliance with financial policies and procedures

Audit, Compliance & Reporting

• Coordinate and prepare for the annual financial audit
• Oversee 401(k) plan administration, including preparation and filing of Form 5500
• Oversee the preparation and filing of the organization’s annual tax returns, working closely with external auditors and tax advisors to ensure compliance and accuracy.
• Oversee and ensure compliance with all IRS and other regulatory filings (e.g., Federal 941, 940, state filings, PAC compliance)

·        Manage the Finance and Audit Committee, including scheduling and preparation of meeting materials

·        Present financial reports and updates during bi-annual board meetings.

Payroll & Benefits Administration

• Manage payroll processing
• Administer employee benefits, including health insurance, life insurance, and retirement plans
• Serve as the primary contact for benefit vendors and coordinate open enrollment

Investment Oversight

• Monitor investment accounts and coordinate with external advisors on performance and allocation

Human Resources / IT

·        Serve as internal point of contact for HR-related inquiries and policy implementation

·        Primary contact with IT vendor to ensure systems and software support financial and operational needs

·        Support onboarding/offboarding of employees in relation to payroll, benefits, and access

·        Maintain and update employee handbook and financial-related HR policies in coordination with leadership

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required
• CPA or equivalent professional certification strongly preferred
• Minimum of 8-10 years of experience in accounting or financial management, preferably in a nonprofit or trade association environment
• Demonstrated experience supervising accounting or administrative staff
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with internal teams and engage regularly in face-to-face interactions with association members to enhance member value and relationships.
• Strong knowledge of GAAP, nonprofit accounting, and regulatory reporting
• Experience with budgeting, financial forecasting, and audit preparation
• Proficiency in accounting software (e.g. Sage) and Excel
• Excellent organizational and communication skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a small team environment
• Ability to travel when needed